196958 Thu Sep 19 09:36:33 -0700 2002 2 18 Manhattan 0 1051072 I will be in New York, Columbus Circle area the middle of October. What restaurants would you suggest? We like French, Italian (all regions), Hungarian, Polish, Russian, etc. I was hoping for restaurants with really good food. A celebrity chef is not necessary especially if it effects the quality of the food. Many Thanks. Good deals at restaurants that offer Price Fix menus are also appreciated. Thu Sep 19 09:36:33 -0700 2002 0 Just Larry 1 1051255 Fairly close by & excellent (though not cheap) are Picholine (35 W 64) -- make sure to leave room for the fabulous cheese selection, and try to get Max McCalman (their cheese master) to assist -- and Compass (208 W 70). Fri Sep 20 14:24:29 -0700 2002 1051072 0 Evan 2 1051305 Yes, definitely Picholine and Compass. Love them both. BTW, in addition to its a la carte menu, Compass has a $35 3-course, prix-fixe. Shun Lee, on W. 65th St., btw Columbus Av & Central Park West, serves refined gourmet Chinese cuisine. Shun Lee Cafe, right next door, is more casual and less expensive. In the Essex House, on Central Park S., btw 6th & 7th Avs., where Alain Ducasse NY, the temple of haute French cuisine, is located (really big $$$$$), you will also find Cafe Botanica, much more reasonable, but not inexpensive, though they do offer prix-fixe deals. The food is Mediterranean/French. They are especially noted for their week-end brunch buffets. The room is very attractive and overlooks Central Park. I also suggest that you walk down 9th Avenue where you will find many reasonably-priced restaurants with cuisines from around the globe. Our favorite for excellent Greek food in a casual setting is Uncle Nick's (btw 50th & 51st Sts.). Enjoy your stay and Bon Appetit! Fri Sep 20 22:05:40 -0700 2002 1051255 0 RR